The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a reminder to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in the Yakama Nation regarding the approaching deadline of June 24, 2025, for applying for federal disaster loans. These loans are intended to mitigate economic losses caused by wildfires that occurred from June 22 to July 8, 2024.
The disaster declaration includes the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, as well as Klickitat, Lewis, Skamania, and Yakima counties in Washington.
Through this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is accessible to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits that have suffered financial losses due to the disaster. However, agricultural producers such as farmers or ranchers are not eligible unless they operate small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs can be used for working capital needs arising from the disaster even if there was no physical damage. The funds may cover fixed debts, payroll expenses, accounts payable, and other bills affected by the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” stated Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
Eligible applicants can receive up to $2 million with interest rates starting at 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for private nonprofits. The terms can extend up to 30 years with interest not accruing until one year after the first loan disbursement. Loan amounts and terms are determined based on each applicant's financial situation.
Applications can be submitted online at sba.gov/disaster or by contacting SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Telecommunications relay services are available by dialing 7-1-1 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
All applications must be submitted by June 24.
The U.S. Small Business Administration plays a pivotal role in supporting American entrepreneurs through resources that assist them in starting or expanding their businesses or recovering from declared disasters.